TAKAYASU’S DISEASE

(Pulseless Disease)

TAKAYASU’S DISEASE….It is a non-specific arteritis involving the aortic arch and peripheral vessels of young females of the eastern portion of the globe (Asians). Exact aetiology is unknown but it may have an autoimmune basis. Clinically it presents with constitutional symptoms like weakness, fever, anorexia, loss of weight, arthralgia, night sweats, etc. Gradually features of aortic arch involvement appear. Blurred vision, syncope, pain along the carotid artery with murmur and poor pulsation may develop. Lower limb vessels and renal arteries may also be involved giving rise to a syndrome akin to coarctation of the aorta. When the aortic arch is involved along with renal artery patient will have hypertension with absence of pulse in the limb called reversed coarctation syndrome. Fundoscopic examination may reveal a wreath-like anastomosis around the optic disc which was first described by the Japanese ophthalmologist.

TREATMENT OF TAKAYASU’S DISEASE

No specific treatment is available. Only anti-coagulant, and steroids may be helpful. In advanced disease arterial graft may be required.

.TAKAYASU’S DISEASE.